A recording of three, mostly early, works by the American composer, Richard Maxfield. Although perhaps known best for his pioneering work in the realm of electronic music, Maxfield was first an award winning composer of 20th century classical music, who studied with Roger Sessions and Milton Babbitt. The first work heard is his “Piano Sonata No. 2” which was dedicated to Roger Sessions. This 1949 performance by Marie L. St. Gaudens, was recorded in Berkeley California. The second work heard is “Structures” which is scored for ten wind instruments. The recording is taken from a November 1951 performance by the Chaldmeau Wind Ensemble of London at the Royal British Art Gallery, and is conducted by the composer. The last work in this program is an electronic tape work, more representative of the type of avant-garde music for which Maxfield became famous. It is dedicated to the fabulous Sonny Wilson, described as the world's greatest wonder preacher, and is based on Negro revival meetings. Maxfield tragically committed suicide in 1969 by throwing himself out a Los Angeles hotel window.

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